Microsoft BX1-00005 Silver/Black 105 Normal Keys 22 + 1 Zoom Slider Function Keys USB or PS/2 Wired Standard Digital Media Pro Keyboard - OEM

Pros: I've been using this keyboard for a couple years now, I will never switch. I've tried a bunch of gaming keyboards, but this is by far the best keyboard I've ever used. I recommend it for its price, and all the buttons. If you think about it, you have 17 programmable buttons.

Cons: The inside doesn't have a lot of space, I have modded two of these keyboards w/ EL Wires, and the wiring was hard. But, Most people don't mod keyboards, so don't even listen to this, and buy the keyboard.

Overall Review: I've been gaming for over 5 years, I will never switch keyboards now,.. Hopefully Microsoft will be smart soon and make a gaming version w/ lights in it.

Pros: The biggest pro of this keyboard is that the Insert, Home, and Page keys have the standard layout over the arrow keys. Sadly many companies are messing with the layout of these keys and it can mess with games that have default mappings to these keys. A real working function lock. Most keyboards that have function locks require you to turn them on before you can use the normal F-key functionality (Logitech I'm looking at you). This can be a major pain when you are trying to get into Window's boot menu with F8. This keyboard remembers the function lock's status even if it's completely unplugged there for it's permanently on for me.

Cons: The black bezel around the media keys is hard to keep free of finger prints. This makes the keyboard look a little dirty even when it's not.

Overall Review: Other people have written about the need to press the keys with a larger amount of force. I do find this to be the case; however, I'm one of the people who actually prefer the tactical feedback this give you. Finally, skip installing the software off the CD and just download the latest version here: http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/mouseandkeyboard/Download.mspx

Pros: Goldilocks keys - not too firm, not too soft; action is quiet enough to not bother my roommate. More hotkeys than I know what to do with. Good quality. Great price.

Cons: Zoom is a little gimmicky. Intellitype software doesn't allow for full customizability of hotkeys - use something like AutoHotKey instead. Not a curve/wave model (my preference).

Overall Review: I was wonderfully surprised to see that the keyboard remembers the F-Lock key status (Google if you're unfamiliar with this problem) between reboots/power outages, even when hooked up via USB - I dunno how they do that short of an internal battery. Overall, I can't complain - even disregarding the price I can't think of any shortcomings.

Pros: Seems very robust and strudy. Will take much usage. Comes with software for Windows XP. You can download software version 6.1 from Microsoft that works terrific with Vista. I like all the quick access button. Far more features that space to list. Save money get the OEM version in plain packaging and save some cash.

Cons: I do not like the cheap plastic wrist support provided.

Pros: Price, Key stroke feel, Design, Extra function keys.

Cons: Made by Microsoft (cough, cough, gag, gag.)

Overall Review: As much as I dislike most everything Microsoft has their fingers in, I love this keyboard. I added it at the last minute to the system I was building and picked it frankly based on price and styling alone. I am VERY happy with it and will get another for my older system when I give it to the kids because it is way better than the one I was using. Very solid feel and nice extra touches.

Pros: quiet action, cheap but good quality

Cons: none other than you have to configure your function buttons if your use to the default function for them, such as: F5=refresh or F10=save and restart when your in the bios

Overall Review: well worth the money...alot of configurable short cut keys and is great for gaming. I am impressed

Pros: All of the extra keys are very useful. There are so many buttons.

Cons: I think the buttons should be easier to press down. There should be less resistance. Keys shouldn't take so much effort to push down.

Overall Review: The disc included didn't work with Windows Vista. I had to go to the website and download drivers which isn't too difficult.

Pros: Good keyboard, a lot of functions. I'm a gamer who uses a laptop, and it's nice to have a real full size keyboard where the control and other important keys are in the proper place lol

Cons: The keys are little stiff at first, but you get use to it fast. I personally use to like light keys, but as I get use to this one, I'm liking it more and more.